Training Specialist (Paramedic Services)

The Role

Works with the Supervisor of Training, Education & Program Development to coordinate training requirements for paramedics (new hires, annual certification, return to work, continuing medical education (CME)) to ensure compliance with standards and regulations, including conducting in-field evaluations, providing coaching and support, and developing individual education plans. Oversees service instructors in the development and delivery of educational sessions. Researches current scientific literature and best practices in paramedic clinical practice and patient-centric care to review and assess investigation reports.  

Duties/Responsibilities

• Provides coaching and guidance to paramedics, service instructors, and logistics and support staff.
• Coordinates annual certification requirements for paramedics to ensure compliance with base hospital standards and regulations. Compiles data and submits reports to base hospital, senior management, and other divisions, as needed. Assists and directs service instructors in the development and delivery of training and education sessions. Audits delivery and development of training and education programs by service instructors, acting as a mentor to improve their adult education skills. 
• Conducts new hire in-field evaluations. Assesses and evaluates paramedics’ clinical skills through field evaluations. Documents and tracks performance, and maintains records. Works with supervisor to develop remedial training and education plans tailored to individuals’ self-identified areas for improvement.
• Supports the return-to-work program for staff returning from leave or injury. Develops education and training plans based on individuals’ time away from the workplace and self-identified areas of improvement. Liaises with supervisors to follow up on plan implementation. Evaluates and reports on paramedics’ clinical ability to return to the job. 
• Coordinates college student placements with preceptors. Liaises with colleges regarding placements, including related paperwork and certificates. Develops, improves, and delivers preceptor training. Provides guidance, coaching, and support to preceptors and students and resolves issues. Maintains records regarding preceptors and students operating in the service.  
• Assists supervisor in developing the continuing medical education program (CME). Coordinates service instructors in the development and implementation of curriculum and training. Assists in delivery of education and provides audits and feedback to service instructors on their development and delivery of programs. Works with Supervisor of Professional Practice and Coordinator of Regulatory Compliance to analyze patient care records and related data to identify areas for training (e.g., gaps in knowledge, interest), and makes recommendations to Supervisor of Training, Education & Program Development. Participates on education committees with partners and on other internal committees as required.
• Assists in reviews for investigations, complaints, and audits from a clinical practice perspective. Reviews, analyses, and evaluates clinical practice against procedures, professional standards, regulations, best practices, and current scientific literature to support patient-centred decision-making. Participates in producing reports and recommendations for remedial training and potential discipline.
• Participates in the annual or semi-annual recruitment testing and evaluation process through participation in interviews and development and scoring of scenarios. Provides input to supervisor and Deputy Chief regarding new recruit hiring.
• Assists the Department to coordinate the modified work program by tracking work, coordinating duties, and compiling work from other areas in the Division. Coordinates with scheduling coordinator to ensure modified workers are appropriately scheduled and directed. 
• Exchanges information/best practices with peers in other municipalities. Interacts with the public when conducting ride along duties. Actively participates in professional development opportunities and training.  
  Purchases program resources, with management approval. 
• Backs up supervisor, as required.
• Performs related duties, as required.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Knowledge of paramedic services, including Ministry documentation standards, policies, procedures, and guidelines, normally acquired through a diploma/degree in Paramedicine, plus progressively responsible related experience. 
• Knowledge/experience in adult education principles and practices. 
• Must be certified as a primary or advanced care paramedic, and maintain certification. 
• Knowledge of and ability to comply with policies, procedures, collective agreements, legislation, and standards (e.g., Ambulance Act, Ministry Standards, health and safety, privacy). 
• Research, analytical, organizational, and continuous improvement skills to evaluate paramedics in the field to ensure compliance with regulations; conduct and apply scientific research/literature and best practices to assess investigation reports and make recommendations to supervisor; keep knowledge current related to best practices and developments in paramedicine; and coordinate annual paramedic certification with base hospital.
• Communication, facilitation, and coaching skills to guide and explain policies, procedures, and standards to paramedics; conduct new hire training and orientation; and participate as an effective team member. 
  Ability to read and interpret legislation, scientific research (technical journals, periodicals), communications, policies and procedures, and collective agreements. 
• Ability to write reports, develop and revise training/education curriculum and resources, educational bulletins, and draft policies and procedures.
• Computer skills with ability to use software such as Microsoft Office.
• Must provide an acceptable police vulnerable sector check.  
• Ability to travel within and outside Waterloo Region.  
• Ability to work variable shifts including evenings, nights, holidays, and weekends, as required.
• Ability to support and demonstrate the Region’s values.